Travel Smarter by Understanding Alaska Airlines Boarding Groups

When flying with Alaska Airlines, understanding the boarding process is crucial for a smooth and stress-free experience. Whether you're a frequent flyer or a first-time passenger, getting familiar with Alaska Airlines boarding groups helps you plan your arrival, seating preferences, and overall travel comfort. In this detailed guide, we break down every aspect of the Alaska Airlines boarding procedure, from elite Mileage Plan members to basic economy passengers.

What Are Alaska Airlines Boarding Groups?

Alaska Airlines organizes passengers into structured boarding groups to streamline the boarding process. This system ensures efficiency, prioritizes loyal customers, and helps avoid delays. The boarding order is primarily based on ticket class, elite status, and special needs.

The boarding process typically follows this order:

1. Pre-Boarding

2. Group A

3. Group B

4. Group C

5. Group D

6. Group E

Let’s dive deeper into what each group includes.

Pre-Boarding: Special Assistance and Military Personnel

Pre-boarding is reserved for those who genuinely require additional time or help boarding the aircraft. This group includes:

• Passengers with disabilities or mobility issues

• Unaccompanied minors

• Families with small children

• Active-duty U.S. military personnel

These individuals are given priority boarding to provide a safer and less rushed experience.

Group A: First Class and Elite Members

Group A is the top-tier boarding group, primarily composed of:

• First Class ticket holders

• Mileage Plan MVP Gold 100K, MVP Gold 75K, and MVP Gold members

• One world Emerald and Sapphire members

Boarding early allows these passengers to enjoy priority access to overhead bin space, settle in comfortably, and receive premium service from the beginning.

Group B: Premium Class and MVP Members

The second group to board is Group B, which includes:

• Premium Class passengers

• Mileage Plan MVP members

• One world Ruby members

These customers receive extra legroom seating and benefit from early boarding while still securing overhead bin space before the main cabin fills up.

Group C: Main Cabin Early Boarders

Group C generally consists of:

• Main Cabin passengers who purchased upgraded seats

• Passengers seated towards the front of the Main Cabin

• Customers with the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® card (if eligible)

This group gets moderate boarding priority while still enjoying decent overhead bin access.

Group D: Standard Main Cabin Passengers

The majority of passengers fall into Group D, which includes:

• Main Cabin ticket holders without elite status or credit card perks

• Standard fare passengers

Although Group D boards later, seats are already assigned, and the process moves swiftly. Arriving early at the gate is advisable to avoid carry-on bag space issues.

Group E: Saver Fare Passengers (Basic Economy)

Passengers with Saver Fare tickets are placed in Group E, the last group to board. These tickets offer the lowest fare but come with strict restrictions, including:

• Seats assigned at check-in or gate

• No access to overhead bin space (carry-ons must be checked unless you're a Mileage Plan elite member)

• No upgrades or changes permitted

Group E boarding is conducted after all other groups have boarded, and these passengers typically enter through the rear boarding doors if available.

How to Qualify for Early Boarding with Alaska Airlines

If early boarding is important to you, here are ways to qualify for a better boarding group:

1. Fly First Class or Premium Class

Purchasing a First Class or Premium Class ticket guarantees a Group A or B boarding slot, along with more spacious seating and amenities.

2. Join the Mileage Plan Program

Alaska Airlines’ Mileage Plan offers tiered elite status:

• MVP

• MVP Gold

• MVP Gold 75K

• MVP Gold 100K

Each level provides enhanced boarding privileges, upgrades, and bonus miles.

3. Apply for the Alaska Airlines Credit Card

Holding the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Card can offer Group C boarding access, free checked bags, and companion fares.

4. Book Early and Select Strategic Seats

Even if you’re not an elite member, early seat selection in forward rows of the Main Cabin may place you in Group C ahead of general boarding.

Alaska Airlines Boarding Process: Step-by-Step Overview

Understanding the logistics can help reduce airport anxiety. Here's a quick look at how the boarding process unfolds:

1. Gate agent announces boarding over the loudspeaker.

2. Pre-boarding passengers are called first.

3. Boarding groups A–E are then called in order.

4. Gate agents scan boarding passes, and passengers proceed through the jet bridge.

5. Final call is made, and the boarding gate closes 10 minutes before departure.

   
   

Boarding Tips for Alaska Airlines Travelers

To make your boarding experience even smoother, consider these expert tips:

• Arrive at the gate early – at least 30 minutes before departure.

• Download the Alaska Airlines mobile app to get real-time updates.

• Keep your boarding pass and ID accessible to speed up the process.

• Avoid overstuffed carry-ons, especially if you’re in Group D or E.

• Dress comfortably, especially on long-haul flights.

  
  

FAQs About Alaska Airlines Boarding Groups

Q: Can I change my boarding group? A: Only by upgrading your seat, earning elite status, or using a qualified credit card.

Q: Will I get overhead bin space in Group D or E? A: Group D might still find bin space. Group E often has no access unless elite status applies.

Q: Does Alaska Airlines allow rear-door boarding? A: Yes, at select airports and aircraft, rear-door boarding may be offered to speed up the process.

Q: What happens if I miss my boarding group? A: You can board with the next group, but access to overhead bin space might be limited.

Conclusion: Plan Ahead for a Better Boarding Experience

Alaska Airlines' boarding group system is thoughtfully designed to maximize efficiency, reward loyalty, and provide comfort to all passengers. Whether you're a top-tier elite or a Saver Fare traveler, knowing your boarding position in advance helps you plan and travel smarter. Make sure to book early, understand your fare class, and take advantage of Mileage Plan benefits to elevate your next journey.